CLUB HANDBOOKAmerica’s Grass-Roots Anglers Dedicated To Bass Fishing’s Future

Club Name

OFFICERSPresident

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Important Phone Numbers

B.A.S.S. NATION®

3500 Blue Lake Drive, Suite 330Birmingham, AL 35243

(205) 313-0900FAX (205) 313-0953

©2021 B.A.S.S., LLC.® All rights reserved. Bassmaster.com

A Comprehensive Guide For A Successful

B.A.S.S.® Club

B.A.S.S. Nation®

AMERICA’S GRASS-ROOTS FISHERMEN DEDICATED TO BASS FISHING’S FUTURE

B.A.S.S. Nation®

3500 Blue Lake Drive, Suite 330, Birmingham, AL 35243 • (205) 313-0900 • FAX (205) 313-0953

Dear Club Member:

We’ve revised the B.A.S.S. Club Handbook to better serve you and the other club members as an informational tool. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with this handbook as it will help your club become organized and run efficiently.

As you look through this edition you will notice that it is packed with useful information, including the duties of club officers, ideas for club events, information about Bassmaster High School and the Junior Bassmaster Club program. We’ve included pertinent information regarding your club’s insurance coverage and the procedures to follow when admitting junior members into adult clubs. As in the past, the handbook includes forms, sample press releases, etc., which should be useful to you. Also, you can go to Bassmaster.com for additional information.

This handbook should answer many of your questions as a club member; however, the B.A.S.S. Nation staff is here to assist you in any way possible. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

B.A.S.S. Wishes,

Jon StewartB.A.S.S. Nation Director

Table of Contents

Bassmaster® Creed ....................................................................................................6History of the B.A.S.S. Nation ® Club Program .........................................................7Club Structure ...........................................................................................................8Benefits of Being a Member of a B.A.S.S. ® Affiliated Club ........................................9Club Officers and Their Duties ................................................................................ 10B.A.S.S. Nation ® Tournaments .............................................................................. 15Advice On Running Your Club ................................................................................ 16Basic Principles of Parliamentary Law ...................................................................... 18Parliamentary Procedure at a Glance ........................................................................ 19Junior Memberships in Adult Clubs ......................................................................... 20Bassmaster® Youth Clubs ........................................................................................ 21Conservation ........................................................................................................... 22B.A.S.S. Times ® ....................................................................................................... 23B.A.S.S.® Memberships and Club Renewals ............................................................ 24How to run a Tournament ........................................................................................ 25B.A.S.S. Nation® Tournament Official Rules and Regulations ................................. 26Suggested Bylaws for a B.A.S.S. Nation® Club ........................................................ 36Press Release for Clubs Sample ................................................................................ 39Insurance ................................................................................................................ 40B.A.S.S. Nation® Staff ............................................................................................ 41

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Bassmaster® Creed

The following is the Bassmaster’s Creed, which may be used as a pledge when taking a new member into your club:

I promise to create among my fellow anglers, and the public in general,

an awareness of my club’s and my organization’s contribution to angling, conservation and outdoor recreation.

I will encourage and instruct the youth of my community in the art of bass fishing.

I pledge myself to full adherence to all conservation codes and to detect and

report any polluter of our nation’s waters.

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B.A.S.S. Nation® Program History

Since 1968, groups of bass fishermen throughout the United States and the world have united to create B.A.S.S. clubs with one common goal — to

learn how to become better bass fishermen. This is just one of the many benefits the B.A.S.S. club network offers its more than 2,000 clubs and 25,000 members who form the backbone — and heart — of B.A.S.S.

However, B.A.S.S. clubs do much more than just fish. They are also involved in community activities, such as organizing fundraising events for groups like the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society; Make-A-Wish, the Children’s Miracle Network and many more. They work with the youth in their area, teaching them the fun of fishing and the importance of

conservation practices. B.A.S.S. clubs sponsor outings and activities for the Boy/Girl Scouts of America, 4-H, Boys & Girls Club and handicapped youth and adults. They provide boat captains for the Bassmaster High School and Junior Bassmaster programs. Club members are heavily involved with programs like Folds of Honor and Wounded Warrior.

In addition to the fun and fellowship a fishing club offers, B.A.S.S. club members also form a cohesive working group that acts effectively on projects and issues affecting the sport of bass fishing. In 1972, the B.A.S.S. Nation program was created to enable B.A.S.S. clubs within a state to communicate and cooperate with other B.A.S.S. clubs and Nations. Today, we have 57

“Nations” in the United States, plus Ontario, Italy, Japan, South Africa, Mexico, Spain, Portugal, Namibia, Australia and Zimbabwe.

When affiliated clubs in each state come together to form a B.A.S.S. Nation, they provide the framework to ultimately act and speak as a united voice on state, national and international issues that affect the future of fishing and the preservation of our natural resources. The B.A.S.S. Nation “alert” system works on a state-by-state basis to combat problems such as invasive species or the loss of aquatic habitats. These bass fishing “Minute Men” have assembled in times of need and have proven to be an effective force in opposing environmentally destructive projects, and also in working for or against proposed legislation that could affect aquatic resource and sportfishing.

Nation members furnish manpower, money and equipment to clean up lakes, stock gamefish, promote catch-and-release and provide tournament creel census reports to their state agencies. They work together to protect and improve the sport of bass fishing for today’s anglers and for future generations of anglers as well.

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Club Structure

CLUB LEVEL

1. Club Dues2. Club Tournament3. Designated Club Officers4. Organized Club Projects

STATE LEVEL

1. State Affiliation2. State Dues3. State Qualifying Tournaments4. Participation in State Events

NATIONAL LEVEL

1. National Affiliation2. National Dues3. Regional Tournaments plus the Prestigious Nation Championship4. BASS Times® free to all B.A.S.S. members5. $50.00 Discount on B.A.S.S. Lifetime Membership6. Liability Insurance for clubs, AD&D while at B.A.S.S. Nation events

for Individuals

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Benefits of Being a Member of a B.A.S.S.® Affiliated Club.

• The fun and fellowship derived from association with fellow anglers and the opportunity to learn from them.• Affiliation with your State/Country Nation of B.A.S.S. clubs, which is organized to promote and protect your bass

fishing interests on both state and national levels.• A personal copy of the monthly B.A.S.S. Times – an informative publication with reports on bass fishing and club

activities across the world.General Benefits• Use of BASS shield• Youth, High School and College programs including a Junior Bassmaster Championship, High School National Championship,

College National Championship and bracket event leading to a Bassmaster Classic berth.• Conservation voice for issues facing U.S. Sportsmen, locally, state, and national• B.A.S.S. assistance in identifying, applying and grant writing• B.A.S.S. Times Magazine, $24 value• $1,000,000 General Liability Insurance Policy for your club• Early entry into the Bassmaster Opens• Pros that attempt to enter after priority entries typically do not get in• Early entry as Elite Series Marshals • B.A.S.S. Nation Championship winner earns berth to Bassmaster Elite Series, with $16,000 Cash bonus for entry fees,

if berth is accepted.• A Bassmaster Classic Berth given to the top three anglers at the B.A.S.S. Nation.• Nation’s Best package provided for one year, to one of the top three anglers from the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship. (includes

fully rigged tournament ready sponsor boat)• Top three anglers and the Co Angler champions from the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship receive paid entries into ALL

Bassmaster Opens. ($64,800 Value)• Eligibility to compete through your state team at one (1) of five (5) B.A.S.S. Nation Regionals• Eligibility to represent your state at the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship• $380,000 payout spread throughout the five (5) Regionals & at the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship • B.A.S.S. Stage and B.A.S.S. Release Boat provided at each B.A.S.S. Nation Regional, B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, College

Opens and National Championship, Bassmaster High School Opens and Championship as well as the Junior Championship.

Sponsor Benefits and Incentives• Eligibility for Alliance awards if running Alliance Products and your state is signed up.• Monetary Awards from Ranger, Nitro, Triton and Mercury. • Up to $4,000 for winning your state championship, up to $4,000 for winning a regional, up to $32,500 for winning the B.A.S.S.

Nation Championship, up to $55,000 bonus for winning the Bassmaster Classic. (must meet all requirements)• Members that purchase an Alliance package receive Two Triton/Mercury shirts and hats, a $1 per HP Mercury rebate,150 HP

and above, and the option to purchase discounted extended warranty.• Berkley product discounts • Humminbird discounts for the State Team members• Garmin discounts for state team members• B.A.S.S. Nation state championships and National events are Skeeter Real Money eligible. A bonus of up to $10,000 for

winning the Bassmaster Classic, $5000 for other B.A.S.S. Nation events. From Skeeter/Yamaha (must meet all requirements)• Yamaha Power Play - $1000 for the highest and $500 for the second highest eligible finisher at the five (5) regionals, $5,000 and

$2,500 respectively at the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship and $20,000 for winning the Bassmaster Classic.• Toyota Bonus Bucks, $500 to eligible members for making the state team, $750/$300 to highest qualified angler/co angler at the

regional, $250/$100 for second highest qualified angler/co angler. $1000 if you make it to the BNC and are a qualified member. $5000/$1000 to the highest qualified angler/co angler at the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, $2500/$500 to the second highest qualified angler/co anglers. Your state receives reduced matching funds for each of the above.

• Discounts from other sponsors, periodically passed down to the members through the B.A.S.S. Nation.

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Club Officers and Their Duties

Great attention and thought should be given to the selection of your club officers. The success of your club depends greatly on

these individuals. They should be energetic “doers”, enthusiastic and able to lead firmly. Each office carries with it important duties and responsibilities. The following outline explains the basic requirements of each office. In addition to the following requirements, the officer can take on additional responsibilities that the club deems necessary.

Club PresidentA club is only as strong as its leadership. And the

club president is the most important officer in the club. Therefore, he/she should be dedicated to every aspect of your club program and its contributions to angling, conservation, youth and outdoor recreation. In his/her dedication, he/she should exercise guidance, control and, above all, a sense of fairness. The following is a list of guidelines for the club president to follow:

Presides at all club meetings: The club president should be the one in charge and maintain order at all times. He/she follows a prepared agenda so that all business is conducted in the most rapid, yet efficient manner possible. A suitable time schedule is a must for a successful meeting. An “all-business” meeting will soon sour members and attendance will drop. Be sure all necessary business is taken up to avoid “loose ends;” however, leave sufficient time for the program as well. Once the business portion of the meeting has been concluded, the club president gives the floor to the club program chairman or another member in charge of entertainment until the program is completed. The club president must then adjourn the meeting.

Appoints club committee chairpersons: The club president is responsible for the appointment of club committee chairpersons and should be very careful in their selection. Good club committee chairpersons are vital to the smooth operation of the club.

Supervises club committees: The club president should carefully supervise all club committee functions whether business or social. It is his/her duty to notify the club committee chairperson, prior to a meeting, if their committee is scheduled to report to the club. The club president should also be involved in any social functions occurring outside the regular business meeting.

Distributes information: B.A.S.S. Headquarters periodically sends supplemental information to its clubs concerning membership, programs, benefits, etc. This information should be presented to the club by the club president or the secretary.

Suggested Order Of Business For President To Follow: Roll Call Secretary reads and approves minutes Treasurer’s report and approval Old business New business Introduction of club Program Chairperson Adjournment

Club Vice PresidentThe club vice president is the “No. 2” person in the

club. He/she is expected to work closely with the club president and be able to take over his/her responsibilities on short notice. The following are suggested guidelines for the club vice president:

Trains for club presidency: The club vice president is often in “training” for the office of club president for the following year. Therefore, he/she needs to become familiar with all the official functions of the club president, including the handling of business meetings.

“Heads-up” club committees: Once the club vice president is familiar with all club functions, he/she becomes a good choice for a club committee chairperson. Many clubs incorporate the offices of club vice president and club program chairperson. This is strictly a decision to be made by each club individually.

Club SecretaryThe club secretary is the records-keeper of the club. It

is very important that the person elected to this office be organized and dependable. Club records that are not accurate are a waste of time. This is a demanding job; therefore, regular attendance should be a requirement for this position. The position of club secretary is often combined with the club treasurer. (See section on Club Treasurer.) The following guidelines are suggested for the club secretary:

Records the club roll: Recording the members’ attendance at each club meeting is the club secretary’s responsibility. Accurate attendance records are important as most clubs have attendance requirements that must be

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met to continue membership. The club secretary should inform the club president when a member violates the club’s requirements so proper action can be taken.

Keeps the club minutes: Keeping the minutes (the official record of all business conducted at each meeting) is up to the club secretary. Notes on all proceedings should be taken during the meetings, paying special attention to figures and vote results. Before the next meeting, the club secretary should rewrite the notes in sentence form so they can be easily read when the minutes of the last meeting are called for by the club president. Minutes of each meeting must be read at the following meeting. These are the club’s only permanent records and should be legible for future reference.

Submits club officer, member and address changes: It is the club secretary’s duty to update the online roster system with any changes of club officers and/or club members and their member numbers. This should be done immediately as the changes occur to guard against any breakdown in communication between B.A.S.S. Headquarters and the affiliated club.

Club TreasurerThe club treasurer, like the club secretary, is also a

records-keeper of the club. This person is responsible for all monetary business of the club, from dues to club tournament payouts. Like the job of the club secretary, this is a demanding job which requires regular attendance by a person who is accurate and dependable. Treasurer records which are not kept correctly are a waste of time and can cost the club money.

Often the position of club secretary and club treasurer are combined into one office. (See section on Club Secretary.) The following guidelines are suggested for the club treasurer:

Maintains club checking and/or savings bank accounts: The club treasurer is responsible for all of the club’s checking and/or savings bank accounts. This includes depositing dues and other monies raised, withdrawing monies for club events and activities and balancing all accounts accurately.

Collects club membership dues: The club treasurer is responsible for collecting the club membership dues (if any) from each club member and recording the date of payment. The club dues are voted on by each club individually. The treasurer is also responsible for

depositing these dues into a club bank account if one has been established.

Prepares club tournament payout: The club treasurer is responsible for preparing the tournament payout (if any) for all club tournaments and ensuring that all tournament bills are paid in full.

Collects and distributes monies from club fundraisers: The club treasurer is responsible for all monies raised at any club fundraising event. If the event is a benefit for charity, the club treasurer is responsible for preparing the contribution for the charitable organization chosen.

Program ChairmanIn many clubs the office of club program chairman is

the responsibility of the club vice president. (See section on the club vice president.) However, as a club continues to grow, the job could become big enough to require the appointment or election of another individual to fill this position. The program chairman has one of the most important and difficult duties of all — to provide the membership with interesting and entertaining programs. The following guidelines are suggested for the club program chairman:

Plans club programs carefully: Programs can make or break a club. Programs that are dull, unorganized, too long or too short have a direct bearing on club attendance. Planning programs well in advance is a must. Length and subject matter should be agreed upon by the club president and by a general consensus of the membership — then stick to the schedule as closely as possible. If a special program is planned that will take longer than usual, the program chairman should notify the club president so he can plan the business portion of the meeting with this in mind. If refreshments are served during the meeting, time should be allotted during the program portion.

Varies club program topics: Programs should be interesting and varied. Alternate with guest speakers, films, outdoor activities, etc. Listed below are some suggestions to help you in your planning.

Guest Speakers• State Department of Natural Resources

Fisheries Biologist Enforcement Officer (Game and Fish) Water Safety and Gun Safety Officer

• State Nation Officer or Director• Experienced Fishermen

National B.A.S.S. Pro Area or Local Professional Fishermen Club Champion

• Representative from Conservation or Sportsmen’s Organizations

Soil and Water Conservation Service• Outdoor Editor of Area Newspaper

Special Programs• “How-to Meetings”

How to fish var ious lures . Contact your local fishing tackle store and invite the sales representative for a particular product line to be a guest speaker and demonstrator.Arrange a meeting place where a swimming pool is available.Discuss various lures and demonstrate method of fishing each.• Teach children how to cast.• How to make lures.• How to wrap rods.• How to repair rods and reels.• How to put line on various types of reels.• Discuss various rod/reel combinations

and their advantages and use.• How to properly maintain your fishing equipment. • How to safely store and winterize

your fishing tackle.

• Safety ProgramsConduct at least one comprehensive Safety Program every six months.Contact the United States Department of Safety, United States Coast Guard, or State Marine Police to arrange a guest speaker in your area. The Department of Safety may suggest some alternative ideas for safety programs.Invite a local television weather personality to

discuss weather safety• Demonstrate the proper way to wear a life jacket.• Provide instruction on when a

life jacket must be worn.• Demonstrate a step-by-step safety

check for boats and trailers.• An example safety check could include:

• Steering linkage, bilge pump, drain plug, kill switch, trailer lights and lenses, trailer winch, trailer bearings, battery check, tire pressure.

• Demonstrate the proper way to load/unload from a ramp.

• Stress the importance of the “Buddy System.” • Demonstrate the proper way to board a boat. • Demonstrate on the water the proper handling

of a boat. First-Aid Kit — Contents and Use.• Each and every activity in which young

people participate should be introduced by a short discussion on safety.

• Conduct a First-Aid course covering artificial respiration, hypothermia, fishhook removal, etc.

• Conservation ProgramsContact the local fisheries department for ongoing conservation programs in your area.Organize a youth group for a lake cleanup.

• Fundraising Events. Raise funds for bass habitat improvement: a favorite charity, clean water protection, picnic areas at your favorite lake, access improvements at boat ramps or for shore anglers, invasive species education and outreach materials, etc.

Club Publicity ChairmanThe club publicity chairman is the primary person

in charge of projecting the club’s image to the public. This member is responsible for all club promotions and publicity-related business. It is this person who serves as the community voice for the club on current issues involving the sport of bass fishing and its preservation. The following guidelines are suggested for the club publicity chairman:

Advertises club events: The club publicity chairman is in charge of advertising all programs and events of the

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club. This includes preparing flyers to be distributed. This info is an excellent way to reach the club’s community if they are distributed to the proper media outlets, such as Facebook, Instagram, Bassmaster.com, newspaper or blog, to bring awareness to the event before and immediately after the event occurs, to get the results out there. “Timely” and “newsworthy” are the key elements to a successful dissemination of info.

Submits club information for Bassmaster.com and/or B.A.S.S. Times: The club publicity chairman is responsible for submitting information on club events and activities to the state B.A.S.S. Nation leadership and to the B.A.S.S. Times Nation editor of the B.A.S.S. Nation. The club publicity chairman should send information at least once a month for publication on the web or in the tabloid. All good-quality photos will be considered for the publication.

Club Tournament DirectorThe office of club tournament director is primarily

self-explanatory. This individual is responsible for all aspects of running a successful club tournament from pre-tournament planning to after-tournament cleanup. The club tournament director will work closely with the club treasurer when preparing club tournament payout (if any, decided upon by the club). The club tournament director will also work with the club publicity chairman on the promotional aspect of the club tournament. Because of the criticality of this office, a club should assign this job to the club vice president.

Chooses club tournament site: The club tournament director is responsible for overseeing the vote for site selection of the club tournament. He/she must be in complete agreement with the club president on the site and have the consensus of the majority of the club members. The club tournament director is responsible for making sure the site chosen has adequate accommodations (motels/hotels, cabins, etc.) and proper facilities (including enough boat ramps, electrical hookups, etc.).

Supervises club tournament meetings: The club tournament director is responsible for all meetings and/or banquets at the club tournament. He/she is in charge of the tournament briefing (the meeting where the tournament pairings are announced and rules are reviewed) and the awards banquet (if one has been decided upon). The club tournament director will work closely with his/her committee and the club president to

prepare the agenda for these meetings and/or banquets.

Prepares club pairings: The club tournament director, along with his/her committee, is responsible for preparing the club tournament pairings if applicable. This is one of the most important jobs of this office. The pairings should be announced at the official tournament briefing and posted at an announced location. The pairings can either be done manually or by computer, but must be done accurately and fairly.

Promotes catch and release: The club tournament director is responsible for ensuring that catch and release is promoted at the club tournament through quick weigh-ins and proper fish care. The club tournament chairman and conservation chairman should coordinate to make sure the fish are returned to the water alive after the weigh-in.

Club Conservation ChairmanThe club conservation chairman is the club’s key to

the preservation of bass fishing and its future. He/she serves as a liaison between his/her club and the state and national conservation/environmental agencies. Following are a few guidelines for the member who has been elected as club conservation chairman:

Attends local, state and national meetings/hearings: The club conservation chairman is responsible for attending as many local, state and national meetings and public hearings that he/she can which deal with conservation/environmental issues that may affect the sport of bass fishing. At the next club meeting, the club conservation chairman must present a report detailing matters which were pertinent at the meeting and/or hearing. This officer should also make the dates and times of the public meetings and hearings available to the club members so they may attend if they wish to.

Submits club conser vation update: The c lub conservation chairman is responsible for sending a conservation update of the club’s current conservation projects to their state conservation director. The club conservation chairman should work closely with the publicity chairman on this project. This update should include the type of project, times, dates, who was involved and any other facts about the project and its outcome.

Submits club for conservation awards: The club conservation chairman is responsible for sending a

conservation update of the club’s current conservation projects to the state conservation director who will compile the state’s reports and forward the information to B.A.S.S. Headquarters. The club conservation chairman should work closely with the club publicity chairman on this project. This update should include the type of project, times, dates, who was involved, any other facts about the project and its outcome and include suitable photos and/or video documenting the project. Stays aware of grant opportunities and submits proposals for conservation projects that the club can be involved with. Coordinates grant submissions with the state conservation director.

Club Youth DirectorThe office of club youth director is responsible for

introducing local youth to the fun of fishing. He/she should organize and coordinate all youth projects for the club. Some guidelines for the club youth chairman include:

Plan youth events: Children are the fishermen of tomorrow. For this reason your club needs to plan

activities that would introduce kids to fishing. As well as support local Bassmaster High School and Junior Bassmaster events. You should contact local youth groups and organize a program with them. Many of our clubs are involved with youth groups such as 4-H Clubs, Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of America. Listed below are several youth programs your club can implement.

Youth Programs• Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs• Host a youth derby• Sponsor a fishing “how-to” seminar• Sponsor a Junior Bassmaster Club or Bassmaster

High School club

Volunteer to be boat captains or help run a youth event. Offer to give seminars to the kids. Donate old or new rods/reels and tackle.

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B.A.S.S. Nation® Championship™

$250,000 in Cash Prizes/AwardsThe Top 3 Anglers In The B.A.S.S. Nation® Championship Advance To The:

The Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic® presented by HUKand one earns the title of B.A.S.S. Nation’s Best and the use of a fully-rigged, tournament-ready boat for one year,

paid Bassmaster Opens entries and an Elite Series berth for one of the Nation’s Best angler.

Top Boater and Nonboater from each state or country advances to theB.A.S.S. Nation® Championship

B.A.S.S.® Nation Region Tournaments

Cash Prizes/Awards

AlabamaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColorado

ConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaIdahoIllinoisIndiana

IowaKansas

KentuckyLouisiana

MaineMaryland

MassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontana

NebraskaNevada

New HampshireNew Jersey

New MexicoNew York

North CarolinaOhio

OklahomaOregon

PennsylvaniaRhode Island

South CarolinaSouth Dakota

TennesseeTexasUtah

VermontVirginia

WashingtonWest Virginia

WisconsinWyoming

AustraliaFranceItalyJapan

MexicoNamibiaOntarioPortugal

South AfricaSpain

Zimbabwe

B.A.S.S. Nation® States and CountriesState team advances to one of five regionals and the foreign countries may either send a team to the appropriate regional or their

Nation champions directly to the B.A.S.S. Nation® Championship

B.A.S.S.® State Team Championships

B.A.S.S. Nation® Tournaments

B.A.S.S. Nation members begin their competition at the club level, where they advance to state tournaments. Each state Nation is represented by

a 20 person team at one of our three regional tournaments. The top boater and top nonboater from every state advances to the B.A.S.S.® Nation Championship™. At this tournament the top 3 anglers are awarded the title of the B.A.S.S. Nation’s Best and the opportunity to fish

against the top professional fishermen each year in the prestigious GEICO Bassmaster Classic® presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods. The three B.A.S.S. Nation’s Best anglers receive among other things the use of a fully-rigged, tournament-ready boat for one year and Bassmaster Opens paid entries. In addition one of the B.A.S.S. Nation’s Best anglers will earn a Bassmaster Elite Series berth.

Western Regional9 States Nations

2 Foreign Nations180 anglers

Central Regional8 States Nations

3 Foreign Nations160 anglers

Northern Regional9 States Nations

3 Foreign Nations 200 anglers

Northeastern Regional11 States Nations1 Foreign Nations

220 anglers

Southeastern Regional10 States Nations2 Foreign Nations

200 anglers

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Advice On Running Your Club

Is it a genuine pleasure to attend and participate in your B.A.S.S. club meetings, tournaments and other functions? If your answer to this question is

“no” or “not as enjoyable as it could be,” your club may have some organizational problems. Such problems are common in too many clubs, but they can be easily prevented. From experience, a simple, common-sense approach to the organization of a B.A.S.S. club has been developed. The approach is not unique, but it combines some tried and proven techniques that can result in a more effective club.

First, let ’s look at the organization. This should be specified by the club’s constitution and bylaws. The club should have only three to five elected officers — president, vice president, secretary and treasurer or secretary/treasurer and tournament director.

Basically, their responsibilities are the same as those officers in any other club. However, two important points need to be stressed.

1. Elect responsible, dedicated officers. The best anglers don’t necessarily make the best officers.

2. Ensure that the club secretary (or club secretary/treasurer) is the strongest of the strong. He/she is the key to the successful operation and administration of the B.A.S.S. club. He/she is the chief operating officer of the club and without his/her time, talent and dedication the club will flounder.

The other key officials of the club, such as the club tournament director, the club social chairman, the club conservation director, the club program chairman, etc. and their committees may be appointed by the club president with the consent of the board of directors. Club vote on all elections is also allowable. Appointments allow more flexibility than elected officials with respect to changes required when an official isn’t doing his/her job, resigns, etc.

The last, but most important, facet in the organization should be the board of directors. This board should be comprised of the elected officers and no more than two (three if the club has a secretary and a treasurer) members appointed or elected from the membership at large. This will provide a board of five to seven members. The odd number is necessary because the president will only vote if there is a tie on an issue. This completes the organization.

Now let ’s look at the functions of the officers and appointed officials and discuss a few time-proven techniques which they can use in the operation and administration of the club.

The elected officers function generally as in any other club. The president presides over the general membership meeting and other official functions and, most importantly, over the meeting of the board of directors. The vice president functions similarly in the absence of the president and supports the president by performing special functions as directed.

The secretary accounts for the membership, formulates the agenda for meetings, prepares correspondence, handles mail and is the club recorder/minutes keeper. In addition, he/she is the official keeper of the constitution and bylaws and is responsible for updating changes, etc.

The treasurer is responsible for the fiscal bookkeeping and is the general manager of the club’s monetary assets and liabilities. If property is owned, he/she is normally responsible for that accounting and security.

The board of directors functions as the directive body which guides the general membership. The board discusses and may decide the club’s course of action on all business and other items which require decisions and do not require a vote of the general membership by the constitution and bylaws. Decisions of the board are presented to the membership and are final unless challenged by a member.

If challenged, a vote of the membership decides the issue. Use of the board avoids long, heated membership arguments during regular meetings, thus allowing more time for pleasurable things like guest speakers, etc. However, club members may choose to vote on all matters.

A word of caution for members of the board — considerable time and effort are required to do this job properly. If the board doesn’t conscientiously guide the club, then you’re back to attempting to run the club during general membership meetings, where frustration reigns.

Other techniques to be considered by the officers are:1. Provide a solid, encompassing constitution and

bylaws for your club. It will save a lot of argument and confusion. Give each member a copy. Provide a full program for your club. Don’t just meet to

draw for partners for the next tournament. Involve all members in your activities, including members’ families when possible. Stress good public relations.

2. Prepare an agenda for each meeting and follow it. Check in advance to see that those on the agenda are knowledgeable and prepared to provide their portion of the program.

3. Plan your club’s activities on a calendar-year basis and provide a fiscal plan to accommodate the planned activities. “Block” certain monies for specific purposes, e.g., set aside a specific percentage of the monthly tournament fees to support the state team at the B.A.S.S. Nation Regional Tournament.

4. Provide a good orientation program for new members. Take time to officially welcome them to meetings, give them copies of the club’s constitution, bylaws, tournament rules, etc. Explain to them the current and planned activities of the club.

5. Prepare a standard, detailed and common-sense set of rules for all club tournaments and give each

member a copy. Stress tournaments only begin when competitors are wearing personal flotation devices, use of kill switches, also using aerated livewells, “don’t kill your catch” and limits of fish less than that authorized by the state. Remember that your tournaments play an important role in public relations.

6. Don’t price yourself out of business. Take a close look at your cost — membership dues, tournament fees, club uniforms (hats and jackets), etc. The price of joining and maintaining membership can easily become unreasonable and out of reach for many who want to be members. Again, stress the importance of providing a sound fiscal plan.

7. Appoint special committees to research, report on and offer recommendations on actions which require special attention and are beyond the capability, in a short period of time, of the board or membership to reach a valid decision.

8. The keys to a good B.A.S.S. club are proper organization and dedicated performance by officials. If your club has the right keys, membership will be an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Basic Principles of Parliamentary Law

The basic principles of parliamentary law govern our society. Therefore, each member of your B.A.S.S. club should be acquainted with its

fundamental aspects and consider it a duty to apply them at all meetings of the organization. A presiding officer alone cannot carry out the rules of parliamentary procedures; the entire membership must have at least a basic knowledge and be willing to take part in the orderly conduct of the meeting.

It is therefore strongly recommended that each B.A.S.S. club adopt an authoritative parliamentary manual such as Robert’s Rules1 of Order.

These rules are based on a regard for the rights...— of the majority,— of the minority, especially a strong minority —

greater than one-third— of individual members— of absentees— of all these together

The application of parliamentary law is the best method yet devised to enable assemblies of any size, with due regard for every member’s opinion, to arrive at the general will on a maximum number of questions of varying complexity in a minimum amount of time and under all kinds of internal climate ranging from total harmony to hardened or impassioned division of opinion.

Experience tells us that your club will face the above referenced “internal climates” during the course of your club’s existence. For these reasons, each club should have functional, precise and detailed club bylaws and an official parliamentary manual.

Robert’s Rules of Order is the recognized authority for B.A.S.S. clubs and should be available at your local book store or library.1 Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised p .XLII.

TO DO THIS: YOU SAY THIS: May you interrupt the speaker?

Do you need a second?

Is it debatable?

Can it be amended?

What vote is needed?

Can it be reconsidered?

Adjourn meeting “I move that we adjourn” No Yes No No Majority No

Call an intermission “I move that we recess for”

No Yes No Yes Majority No

Complain about heat, noise, etc.

“I rise to a question of privilege”

Yes No No No No vote No (usually)

Temporarily suspend consideration of an issue

“I move to table the motion”

No Yes No No Majority No

End debate and amendments

“I move the previous question”

No Yes No No 2/3 No

Postpone discussion for a certain amount of time

“I move to postpone the discussion until...”

No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes

Give closer study to something

“I move to refer the matter to committee”

No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes

Amend a motion “I move to amend the motion by...”

No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes

Introduce business “I move that...” No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes

Protest breach of rules or conduct

“I rise to Point of Order” Yes No No No No vote No

Vote on a ruling of the chair

“I appeal from the chair’s decision”

Yes Yes Yes No Majority Yes

Suspend rules temporarily

“I move to suspend the rules so that...”

No Yes No No 2/3 No

Avoid considering an improper matter

“I object to consideration of this motion”

Yes No No No 2/3 No

Verify a voice vote by having members stand

“I call for a division” or “Division!”

Yes No No No No vote No

Request information

“Point of information” Yes No No No No vote No

Take up a matter previously tabled

“I move to take from the table . . .”

No Yes No No Majority No

Reconsider a hasty action

“I move to reconsider the vote on...”

Yes Yes No No Majority No

Parliamentary Procedure at a Glance

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Junior Memberships in Adult Clubs

Youth outreach remains one of the top purposes of B.A.S.S. and the Nation programs. In addition to participating in Bassmaster High

School or sponsoring a Junior Bassmaster Club, adult clubs may choose to involve youth in club activities by admitting kids under the age of 16 as junior members of their clubs. Why? Club members can ensure that the future of our great sport is in well-prepared hands by educating and mentoring with the youth. In the absence of a junior club, junior membership allows interested youth within the community to participate in fishing activities and ensures the future of the club.

By participating in club activities, junior members will benefit from the interaction with experienced anglers and in the process learn about important conservation

issues, new fishing techniques, boater safety and the importance of community service.

RegulationsJunior members are not required to pay national

membership dues, their names will not appear on national roster and they are not entitled to the benefits of a regular member. The acceptance of junior members will not affect a club’s liability insurance policy. Junior members are not covered by the accidental death and dismemberment policy. Junior members may not hold office in an adult club nor may they be voting members. At age 16, junior members may continue membership by joining the club as a regular member. Junior membership ceases on a person’s 16th birthday.

Bassmaster® Youth Clubs

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One of the purposes of B.A.S.S. when it was formed in 1968, was to promote and encourage youth fishing. It is strongly recommended that

each B.A.S.S. club develop a youth program as part of its regular activities.

B.A.S.S. sponsors Junior Bassmaster and Bassmaster High School Club Programs, in conjunction with its club program, through which youngsters can develop an interest and love for fishing.

Children don’t go fishing; they are taken fishing. They must be taught how to fish and which conservation measures will ensure fishing for future generations. Organizing a Junior Bassmaster Club can be one of the most rewarding projects your club will undertake. If your club does not wish to establish a junior club, a club may admit children under the age of 16 into the adult club as junior members, as mentioned above.

Suggestions For Junior Bassmaster Club Programs

• “How-To ”Clinics• Educational Workshops

- Conservation - Habitat restoration - Good Fishing Ethics - Catch and Release

• Youth Tournaments• Adopt-a-Waterway• Community Service Projects

Places To Get Junior Members• Boy Scouts of America Clubs• Girl Scouts of America Clubs• 4-H Clubs• Local Schools• Local Churches

Requirements For A Junior Bassmaster ClubJUNIOR RegisterIf you have a Junior club and want to affiliate with B.A.S.S., you have come to the right place. Each member will need to be a current B.A.S.S. member and pay $10 club dues for the upcoming year. For new clubs, signing up is easy. Here is a quick checklist of what you need to do:

• Have a minimum of two anglers.• An adult is required to be the advisor of the club.• You also must affiliate with a State

Nation once you sign up with us.

HIGH SCHOOL RegisterEach member will need to be a current B.A.S.S. member and pay $10 club dues for the upcoming year. Once your roster is updated, then you navigate to the Tournament Information Page to get your team registered to compete in the High School Opens. For new clubs, signing up is easy. Here is a quick checklist of what you need to do:

• Complete your school’s requirements to become an official organization on campus.

• If your school will not allow you to form an official team, then click here. This will direct you to the denial letter.

• Have a faculty advisor or faculty member assigned to your club.

• Have a minimum of two anglers, all members must be affiliated with B.A.S.S., whether they are competing or not.

• Cost per member is $10. This ONLY includes your B.A.S.S. Nation membership. YOU MUST BUY A B.A.S.S. MEMBERSHIP SEPARATELY.

• You must affiliate with a State Nation. Once you sign up with us, then we will forward your information to your state youth director.

COLLEGE RegisterEach member will need to be a current B.A.S.S. member and pay $20 club dues for the upcoming year. Once your roster is updated, then you navigate to the Tournament Information Page, to get your team registered to compete in the regional tournaments. For new clubs, signing up is easy. Here is a quick checklist of what you need to do:

• Complete your school’s requirements to become an official organization on campus.

• Have a faculty advisor or faculty member assigned to your club.

• Have a minimum of 2 anglers, All members must be affiliated with B.A.S.S., whether they are competing or not.

• Cost per member is $20. This ONLY includes your B.A.S.S. Nation membership. YOU MUST BUY A B.A.S.S. MEMBERSHIP SEPARATELY.

• Your club president, secretary and advisor will need to include their email addresses to be notified of your club status.

Conservation

Conservation has been a part of the B.A.S.S. Nation since its beginning, engaging all 500,000 B.A.S.S. members and 25,000 Nation

members supporting scientific fishery management, fighting invasive species, protecting and enhancing fish habitat, preserving boating and fishing access and following the best available tournament fish-care practices. Each of the 47 State Nations has its own conservation director. Their national goals include:

National Conservation Goals:1. Develop a stronger national, regional and statewide

communication network — the conversation page is www.bassmaster.com/conservation-news.

2. Build strong working relationships with state natural resource management agencies to provide input on planning and regulatory programs and help with meeting fisheries management funding needs.

3. Form coalitions with other sportsmen and conservation groups.

4. Communicate key national issues from B.A.S.S. to the 2,000 individual clubs through the Nation network.

5. Build a network of club conservation directors to work with the Nation leaders.

As dedicated members of the State Nation leadership team, the conservation directors are involved with: Youth and physically challenged fishing projects; fish habitat improvement efforts; cooperating on lake planning teams for: lake-level management, vegetation control, boating and fishing regulations, access development planning, economic development projects, overall water quality improvement and influencing state and federal legislation which may influence the state’s water resources.

The prevailing attitude of the B.A.S.S. Conservation Program is simply to give us a seat at the table. We believe that reasonable people with a cooperative attitude can find sensible solutions to real natural resource issues.

If your club wants information on how to get more involved in Nation conservation issues, contact National Conservation Director Gene Gilliland at ggilliland@bassmaster.com.

B.A.S.S. Times®

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BASS Times® is the official magazine for B.A.S.S. club members. Published monthly, B.A.S.S. Times is delivered directly to the

homes of each club’s B.A.S.S. members. In addition to national bass fishing news, B.A.S.S. Times features a special section devoted exclusively to B.A.S.S. club and Nation activities.

First and foremost, B.A.S.S. Times brings you up-to-the-minute reporting on everything from the tournament circuit to conservation news, and everything in between. B.A.S.S. Times’ monthly features like: NATION NEWS — YOUTH — CONSERVATION — PRODUCT REVIEW and tournament coverage will keep your club members up to date on the latest-breaking news and information in the world of bass fishing. Nation news and activities are also featured monthly in B.A.S.S. Times. Remember, B.A.S.S. Times is not only the official news publication for club members, it ’s your club’s link to other Nation clubs across the country and around the world.

Clubs are encouraged to submit articles, club activity announcements, news items, and photographs to B.A.S.S. Times for publication. Other clubs enjoy reading about your activities as much as you enjoy reading about theirs. Any program, special event or news item you would like to share with your fellow Nation members can be published in B.A.S.S. Times.

Guidelines For Submitting Articles to B.A.S.S. Times:

Send all materials to:Editorial at editorial@bassmaster.com with names

of people in the photo or story, a short description of the photo and the name and contact info of the person submitting the photo/article.

When submitting articles to B.A.S.S. Times, keep the following in mind:

• Each article dealing with a particular event should be as timely as possible. Don’t delay sending in the information once the event is held.

• Be sure the article answers the basic questions of who, what, when, where, why and how — then add details. Articles about upcoming projects to raise money, projects geared toward improving the environment, unusual fishing techniques, and youth-related activities make good stories.

• Always include the name, address and

phone number (home and business) of the writer, should a question arise.

• Photographs should accompany submissions when-ever possible. If you’re not certain how to approach a particular article, contact the B.A.S.S. Times staff at B.A.S.S. head-quarters.

Guidelines For Submitting Articles to Bassmaster.com:

W hen submit t ing tournament photos and blog mater ials for Bassmaster.com, submit to update@bassmaster.com with names of people in the photo, a short description of the photo and the name of the person submitting the photo. Include the same info as above.

Helpful Hints:Clubs and Nations have found it most effective

to select a single person (or two people) to handle stories and photographs for B.A.S.S. Times, as well as the local press. You might also find some assistance from a local high school. It is an excellent way for a student to gain experience, and journalism/English/photography teachers are often willing to award extra credit for such efforts.

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B.A.S.S.® Memberships and Club Renewals

The following requirements must be met to maintain your affiliation with the B.A.S.S. Nation:

• All club membership must belong to B.A.S.S. at all times of affiliation.

• A minimum of six (6) B.A.S.S .members must be maintained at all times for the club to be in existence.

• The club secretary or designated membership manager of your club must keep the club updated and active on the online roster management system, including any changes of officers and/or new club members.

B.A.S.S. Nation Dues StructureB.A.S.S. Membership ...................................... $30.00B.A.S.S. Nation Dues ...................................... $30.00*Total Individual Affiliation Cost ..................... $60.00*B.A.S.S. Nation dues cover a calendar year period,

expires each December 31, not prorated on a monthly basis. Rosters must be updated with Nation dues.

Individual B.A.S.S. Membership and RenewalAll club members should pay their B.A.S.S. dues on

an individual basis. Renewal notices are mailed directly to a member well before his membership expires. Membership ends on the first day of your expiration month. We urge you to renew as quickly as possible.

B.A.S.S. Membership DuesOne year .......................................................... $30.00Five years ......................................................... $150.00Lifetime ........................................................... $500.00These are current prices and are subject to change.

FAMILY MEMBERSHIPUnder the B.A.S.S. family membership plan, members

of your immediate family can join B.A.S.S. at a special yearly rate. The dues are set up as follows:

First member ...................................... $30.00 per yearFamily (per person) ............................. $10.00 per yearYou (i.e. first member) and members of your family

will be placed on the B.A.S.S.® membership file. You and each joint member will receive the proper packet, either new member or renewal member. However, only one copy of each issue of Bassmaster® Magazine will be mailed to your home.

While joint members who are club members may fish in local club tournaments, you must be a full member to compete in the Bassmaster® Tournament Series and the B.A.S.S. Nation Tournament Series.

To inquire about a family membership, please call 1-877-BASSUSA for details. Being a B.A.S.S. member can be a family affair. So, get your family signed up today!

JOIN TODAY!

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How to runa Tournament

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The club bass tournament is probably one of the most important of all your group activities. It not only encourages sportsmanship among club

members, but it also helps members learn how to work together toward a common goal. Any organized activity, regardless of its size, requires adequate planning — and a bass tournament is no exception. The first step in planning a bass tournament is to formulate a complete set of rules and regulations. The Official Rules of the B.A.S.S. Nation are the result of much planning and years of experience and should be the basis on which your club’s rules are formulated. Link to rules While all of these rules won’t apply to chapter tournaments, we strongly urge your club to adopt as many of them as possible. We require that each club follow the same type of strict B.A.S.S. regulations regarding the use of life vests, kill switches, bilge pumps and alcohol while operating a bass boat. These life-saving measures are for your personal protection and will help ensure a safe, well-organized tournament from start to finish.

Not everyone understands competitive fishing and, therefore, tournaments have often received much adverse criticism. The future of competitive fishing depends greatly on how your club conducts its tournaments. Don’t let inadequate organization be the cause of criticism. As an affiliated club of B.A.S.S., you become a part of our international club program. Each club has a responsibility to conduct itself in a manner that will benefit all clubs.

The Weigh-in SiteThe weigh-in site is the focal point of a tournament. It

reflects the image of your club and can greatly enhance the coverage of your program through news coverage and publicity. Special consideration should be made when choosing a weigh-in location. The site should allow boats and anglers nearby access to the weigh-in scales, and allow the expeditious return of bass to the water.

ScalesMost scales used in tournaments are digital. Battery-

operated scales allow more flexibility in selecting a weigh-in site. They are not considered practical when used for long duration, as their dry-cell batteries must be replaced regularly. Alternating-current systems provide a continuous power supply. While more expensive, they tend to be more reliable.

Weigh-in TanksA variety of tanks are available to provide an adequate

supply of water for contestants’ bass while proceeding through the weigh-in. The most common tank used is

a livestock watering tank, available at agricultural supply stores. Tanks are constructed of fiberglass, plastic and aluminum. Most popular are the plastic tanks because of their lightweight and stackability. The plastic models do not tend to conduct heat like metal tanks, which tend to raise the water temperatures above that of the lake water. Tanks are available in a variety of sizes, with those in the 85- to 100-gallon range being most popular.

Aeration SystemsFish under stress of captivity in a livewell develop a need

for more oxygen than under normal metabolism. Even though the time bass spend in a weigh-in line is only a few minutes, this need for additional oxygen must be recognized. It is recommended that supplemental oxygen be added to your weigh-in tanks. This can be accomplished with compressed oxygen from a welding bottle, regulator and fine-pore air stone or by using high volume air pumps or compressors and air stones to maintain oxygen at saturation level. Farm and ranch or aquarium supply stores are a convenient source for finding these supplies.

Weigh-In BagsResearch on tournament-caught bass indicates plastic

bags filled with water are the best method of transporting fish from the boat to the weigh-in. It must be mentioned that caution should be taken when choosing weigh-in bags. They must be heavy enough mill thickness to hold fish and water. Mesh bags inside solid bags allow anglers to carry their fish from their boats in water then pull the mesh bags out and place them in the aerated tanks. This also reduces the number of times the fish are handled. If aerated weigh-in tanks are not used, only a few bags should be handed out, and care must be taken to ensure rapid weigh-in of fish before the oxygen in the weigh-in bag is depleted.

Water QualityTo maximize survival of released fish, water quality in

weigh-in tanks must be maintained throughout the contest. If water from a municipal supply is used, then a chlorine/chloramine remover must be used before fish arrive. Check water temperatures in the lake early in the morning and adjust tank temperatures with bagged or block ice to achieve a no more than 5-7 degree reduction in water temperature. Monitor tank temperatures throughout the event and add more ice as necessary. B.A.S.S. does not recommend the use of any commercial water conditioners because they may contain chemicals that are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for fish that are released and may be caught again and eaten by the public. In stead, use noniodized salt at 1 cup per 15 gallons of water.

B.A.S.S. Nation® Tournament Official Rules and Regulations

1. RULES AND PENALTIES The following rules shall apply to all B.A.S.S. Nation

events except that (i) rules for special tournaments may differ from those contained herein and (ii) these rules may be changed by B.A.S.S. immediately upon notice by B.A.S.S. to its members, which notice may be published on the B.A.S.S. internet site at www.bassmaster.com. Interpretation and enforcement of these rules shall be left exclusively to the Tournament Director or his/her designee at a tournament. In the event of a rule violation, the Tournament Director or a rules committee may impose such sanctions as deemed appropriate by them, including without limitation, disqualification, forfeiture of prizes, entry fee and prohibition from participation in subsequent tournaments. Subject to the appeal process set forth in rule 22, below, the decision of the Tournament Director, his/her designee, or the rules committee, shall be final in all matters.

Except for very serious rules violations, as determined by B.A.S.S., and any r ules that might lead to disqualification of an angler from participation in the B.A.S.S. Nation tournaments or other B.A.S.S. circuits, rules violations must be reported to tournament officials within 24 hours of the final flight check-in on the day of the alleged violation. Penalties for rules violations may include the following:

(a) Reduction of practice or competition hours as determined by the Tournament Director

(b) Loss of one or more fish caught in potential violation of rules or regulations. All bass under question must be marked and verified by your Partner/Marshal/camera operator. If not verified the entire catch may be disqualified.

(c) Loss of catch for the day of the violation

(d) Disqualification from the tournament in question

(e) Disqualification from future B.A.S.S. events, which may be from a specific number of events, a specific period of time, or may be a lifetime disqualification.

(f) Any different or additional penalties determined by the Tournament Director including but not limited to monetary fines and/or reduction of Angler of Year points.

2. PARTICIPANTS AND ELIGIBILITY:

(i) Participation in this tournament is by invitation only. This tournament is open only to current members of B.A.S.S. who are 16 years of age or older, who are active members of the appropriate B.A.S.S. Nation state chapter and who have participated in the appropriate state B.A.S.S. Nation qualifying tournament(s). However, employees, officers and directors of B.A.S.S. or its parent, subsidiary, and affiliated companies and members of their immediate families (spouse, parents, children and sibling, regardless of where they live) are ineligible. Proof of age to the satisfaction of tournament officials is the responsibility of potential competitor. Any candidate for competition who, in the judgment of the Tournament Director, is disabled in such a manner as to unfairly hinder his/her partner or endanger the safety and well-being of his/her partner or themselves may not be eligible.

(ii) DURING THE OFFICIAL PRACTICE

AND COMPETITION DAYS OF ANY B.A.S.S. TOURNAMENT, NO BOATER OR NON-BOATER COMPETITOR MAY OPERATE A BOAT UNLESS THAT CONTESTANT HAS DOCUMENTED PROOF OF A MINIMUM OF $300,000, PER OCCURRENCE, BOAT OWNERS LIABILIT Y INSURANCE COVERING THE BOAT BEING USED IN THE TOURNAMENT. PROOF OF INSURANCE MUST BE WITH THE BOAT BEING USED AND MUST COVER ALL PASSENGERS IN THAT BOAT. RANDOM CHECKS WILL BE CONDUCTED AND ANY COMPETITOR WHO DOES NOT HAVE PROOF OF IN-FORCE INSURANCE WITH $300,000 COVERAGE MAY BE DISQUALIFIED. EACH POLICY MUST SHOW AN EFFECTIVE START AND EXPIRATION DATE. Tournament officials have sole authority to determine if insurance policies meet B.A.S.S., LLC requirements.

(iii) A PROPERLY COMPLETED AND SIGNED

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE B.A.S.S. NATION DEPARTMENT ON OR BEFORE THE APPLICATION DEADLINE DATE. ENTRY DEADLINE DATE FOR EACH TOURNAMENT SHALL BE 30 DAYS PRIOR TO THE FIRST COMPETITION DAY OF EACH TOURNAMENT OR 7 DAYS AFTER THE FINAL DAY OF THE QUALIFYING TOURNAMENT IF THE TOURNAMENT FALLS WITHIN THE 30 DAY PERIOD. Each calendar year prior to competing

26

SAMPLE

27

in a B.A.S.S. event, all competitors must complete a W-9 and when required a FORM 590, or W-8 BEN provided by B.A.S.S. If tax status or address changes occur, new forms must be submitted prior to participation in the next B.A.S.S. event. Tournament entry fees must be received by the B.A.S.S. Nation Department on or before the entry deadline date. The Tournament Director reserves the right to discontinue acceptance of applications prior to deadline and also the right to extend the acceptance date. As a participant in B.A.S.S. tournaments, you agree, if you qualify and are invited to be a competitor in the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, or the Bassmaster Classic conducted by B.A.S.S., to use during the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, or the Bassmaster Classic competition all official products and equipment so specified and provided by B.A.S.S.

3. PRACTICE AND COMPETITION: (i) There will be no off limits period for any B.A.S.S.

Nation tournament unless specified by the Tournament Director. Special off limits and practice periods for the Bassmaster Classic and the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship will be announced by B.A.S.S.

(ii) There wil l be an official practice period immediately prior to the first day of competition. Three official practice days will begin at 12:01 am the Sunday prior to the start of competition. No competitors will be allowed on tournament waters after registration on Tuesday, until the first day of competition, except under rule 3(iii). Unless otherwise specified, all official times are time zone specific to local host community. The competitor must know and observe these dates. During any posted off limits period, official practice and competition, anglers cannot solicit, gather or intentionally receive any information from anyone other than another competitor in the tournament. NO EXCEPTION, Competitors may only fish with other competitors during official practice and competition. Flying over tournament waters, other than a ticketed commercial airline, is prohibited during official practice and competition unless approved by the tournament director. The use of drones for the purposes of locating or catching fish or to gain a competitive advantage is prohibited in both official practice and competition. During the official practice, competitors are not allowed to live well or keep any bass unless they have permission from tournament officials.

No practicing at night, defined as beginning at 30 minutes after local sunset and ending 30 minutes before

local sunrise, to include running to and from a fishing location. In practice and competition, when running in low light conditions, running lights should be in operation.

(iii) Competitors renting boat slips may launch boats

and proceed immediately to slip location. Testing of engines after the weigh-in is only allowed with permission from the Tournament Director. NO EXCEPTIONS. During the official practice and during the tournament, a competitor may not snorkel, “skin dive” or “scuba dive” in the tournament waters.

(iv) No competitor may buy or barter a fishing location

from any other competitor for use during any competition day. Once tournament officials determine daily cuts, competitors not making the cut are no longer considered in the tournament. Competitors making the cut may not receive information under rule 3 (ii).

(v) During the official competition days of the

tournament a competitor may not make cell calls for the purpose of locating or catching fish on tournament waters. Cell phones may be used for emergencies. Competitors are allowed to call lockmasters for locking purposes only. Competitors are allowed to use smart phones for global maps, weather, power generation, tidal charts, notes, etc., however using smart phones during competition to log into daily tournament blogs or social media is not permitted.

(vi) A designated tournament official must be granted

access to the competitor’s boat at any time during the official practice or competition days. Failure to grant such access may result in immediate disqualification.

(vii) Each competitor ag rees to repor t to the

Tournament Director immediately any violation or infraction of any tournament rules. Failure to report violations, or suggestions to another competitor that they violate these rules, or false verification of weigh-in forms, may be cause for disqualification. OFFICIAL PROTESTS MUST BE FILED IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 1. ALL PARTIES OF INTEREST WILL BE PROVIDED A COPY.

By his/her signature on the official tournament entry form, each competitor agrees to submit to a truth

SAMPLE

verification test and abide by its conclusion should he/she be accused of any rule violation. The B.A.S.S. Tournament Director, rules committee, or such person designated by the Tournament Director, shall have the discretion to determine the need for a truth verification test. Failure of a truth verification examination is not appealable. The B.A.S.S. Tournament Director or his/her designee shall be responsible for selecting an independent expert to administer and interpret the results and establishing, in consultation with the expert administrator, the scope of the questions which may be asked during the test. The B.A.S.S. Tournament Director or his/her designee shall have sole responsibility selecting the location, date, and time of the test nearest B.A.S.S. headquarters with respect to all concerned parties schedule and travel cost. The competitor shall make himself/herself available at the location selected by the Tournament Director and shall cooperate in all respects with such test.

Anglers taking a truth verification test may be responsible for all costs incurred. Random truth verifications tests may be administered on site during the course of a B.A.S.S. Nation Event.

4. REGISTRATION: Each competitor must register in person with official

B.A.S.S. staff at the time and place designated in the schedule of events. Failure to register in person during the prescribed hours may result in a $50 fine. Any competitor, who has not contacted the B.A.S.S. Nation Tournament Staff 15 minutes after the closing of the posted on-site registration period, may be disqualified from participating in the tournament. It shall be each competitor’s responsibility to either check the schedule of events for registration time and location or obtain times from the B.A.S.S. Nation Department.

5. SAFETY: (i) Safe boat conduct must be obser ved at all

times by competitors. During the official practice and competition, each competitor must wear a Coast Guard approved chest-type life preserver anytime the combustion engine is running. This preserver must be strapped, snapped or zippered securely, and maintained in that condition until the combustion engine is shut off. Inflatable life vest indicators should be checked daily.

Violation of this rule may be reason for disqualification. Inflatable PFD’s are allowed as long as U.S. Coast Guard regulations are met. The Coast Guard requires that inflatable PFD’s must be worn at all times unless there is an equal number of non-inflatable Coast Guard approved PFD’s on board.

It is suggested the Boater competitor have a safety

check with the Non-Boater each day prior to launch to familiarize the location of all safety equipment.

It is recommended each contestant successfully

complete a boating safety course. Boating safety certification, or a “grandfathered” exception, may be required in certain states. Boating safety courses are available online and should carry an endorsement by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators or NASBLA.

(ii) When boating in low visibility situations i.e.

fog, heavy rain, during both practice and competition, competitors must operate their boats at a safe speed and in a safe manner as determined by tournament officials.

(iii) Radar units permanently mounted in the boat,

subject to approval by B.A.S.S., may be approved for competition.

(iv) Tournament officials have the right to delay, shorten

or cancel any part of an official tournament day because of bad weather or other factors that would endanger the safety of the competitors. Tournament waters may also be restricted at any time because of bad weather. Weather delays on full field days, resulting in half of the tournament day being lost (first flight take-off and check in), shall result in cancellation. Full fields may be carried over to cut days.

(v) B.A.S.S. reserves the right to impose boat speed

limits during any or all tournaments. Whether or not to impose a speed limit, the area covered by the speed limit, and/or the actual speed limit imposed, shall be left exclusively to the discretion of the Tournament Director.

(vi) IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY

SITUATION, COMPETITORS SHOULD CALL

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911 FIRST AND THEN NOTIFY TOURNAMENT OFFICIALS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

(vii) COMPETITORS ARE ALLOWED TO

LEAVE THE BOAT AND SEEK SAFE SHELTER IN BAD WEATHER WHERE DANGER MAY BE IMMINENT.

6. SPORTSMANSHIP: Competitors in B.A.S.S. tournaments are expected

to follow high standards of sportsmanship, courtesy, safety and conservation. Any infraction of these fundamental sporting principles may be deemed cause for disqualification.

(i) Use of alcohol or the use of drugs (other than those

drugs purchased over-the counter or prescribed by a licensed physician) by any competitor, during the official practice or during the tournament, will not be tolerated and shall be cause for automatic disqualification from this and all future B.A.S.S. tournaments. No alcoholic beverages or prohibited drugs shall be allowed in the boats during the official practice or competition days, or when in the weigh-in area.

(ii) Maximum courtesy must be practiced at all times,

especially with regard to boating and angling in the vicinity of non-competitors who may be on tournament waters. Any act of a competitor, which reflects unfavorably upon efforts to promote fisheries conservation, clean waters and courtesy, may be reason for disqualification.

(iii) All competitors are bound by the prevailing statutes

and regulations of the various states in which they fish. Some regulations may differ from these rules resulting in fines, citations or other penalties at the discretion of law enforcement and may or may not result in tournament penalties. Competitors are responsible for research of fishing and boating regulations.

7. ANGLER CODE OF CONDUCT: Anglers participating in any B.A.S.S.-sanctioned event

shall observe this code of conduct and the applicable rules for the specific event in which they are participating.

Anglers and family members of anglers, shall, at all times, conduct themselves in a professional manner that demonstrates integrity, honor and respect toward fellow competitors, tournament staff and the general public and does not reflect unfavorably on B.A.S.S., its members, officers or representatives, tournaments or sponsors.

Anglers are frequently in the public eye and are

considered role models by young people; therefore, it is imperative that tournament competitors demonstrate good sportsmanship in fishing. Sportsmanship is defined as fair play, respect for opponents and polite behavior while competing in the sport.

(i.) Following are examples of unacceptable behavior by

competitors or family members of competitors in B.A.S.S. events that will be cause for penalties as outlined in this document. • Heated public disagreements with B.A.S.S. officials,

other competitors and fans and volunteers during an event.

• Public attacks through media, including social media, upon the integrity of B.A.S.S. rules or officials.

• Public comments that an angler or family member knows, or should reasonably know, will harm the reputation of B.A.S.S., B.A.S.S. officials or its sponsors

• Displays of anger and displeasure for reasons related to fishing competition or the event, where members of the public, including other anglers, spectators and the media, are present.

• Publicly questioning or criticizing a tournament official or official decision, ruling or penalty except through the proper channels.

• Abuse (physical, verbal, threatening or slanderous) of tournament officials, volunteers, fellow competitors or others connected with a B.A.S.S. event, including comments on social media.

• Offensive or slanderous comments with racial, cultural or sexual overtones regarding event officials, event personnel or fellow anglers.

• Intentionally interfering with a fellow angler’s ability to compete.

Any disqualification, suspension or other disciplinary

action imposed by any tournament or fishing organization may result in disqualification from competition and

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rejection of an application for participation in a B.A.S.S. tournament.

(ii.) Chemical substance addiction or abuse, conviction

of a felony or crimes involving moral turpitude, may be grounds for disqualification from competition and for rejecting any application for participation. Any angler who violates any of the provisions of the Sportsmanship Rules or the Angler Code of Conduct may be subject to fines, reduction of points, forfeiture of tournament winnings, and suspension from competing in individual B.A.S.S. sanctioned events, permanent ban from competition or any combination thereof deemed appropriate by B.A.S.S.

8. TACKLE AND EQUIPMENT: Use of landing nets and grippers for landing bass is

prohibited during tournament competition. During practice and competition, no more than one artificial or biodegradable artificial lure may be attached to a line at one time. One lure is defined as a single manmade device designed to attract and/or catch one fish at a time. Adding trailer hooks, plastic trailers, blades, etc., to a single lure is acceptable. If multiple fish are caught on a single manmade lure, on a single cast, all fish are considered legal and may be added to the daily catch subject to scoring rules (17). No “live bait,” “dead bait,” or “prepared bait” will be permitted during official practice and competition, with the exception of pork strips or rinds. Any umbrella-type rigging, harness, or other device designed to hold more than one lure at a time – with or without hooks – is not allowed. Such rigging, harness, or device cannot be added to a single lure as described above.

Twin arm spinnerbaits, twin arm underspins and twin arm buzzbaits are allowed. Trailer hooks and plastic trailers of twin arm baits must be on the main hook of the bait; only spinner blades can be affixed to the arms. The head on the main stem may be hinged. On these twin arm baits, no more than two wires, with a maximum length of 6 inches, may extend off the main arm or body of the lure at the head or line tie point. The bend of the main hook must be even or trail behind where the blades attach to the wires. B.A.S.S. officials have the sole authority to determine whether a lure is considered a single lure as defined above.

Only ONE casting, spin casting or spinning rod (10-foot

maximum length from butt of handle to rod tip) and reel may be used at any one time. A hung or snagged lure that

is not in or on the water is not considered in use and may be set aside while another is in use. Other rigs as specified above may be in the boat ready for use; however, only ONE is permitted in use at any given time. If a competitor breaks his line while setting the hook or retrieving a fish, he is allowed to make an attempt with the rod being used or with his hands to secure the visible line and land the fish for it to be counted as legal. He may NOT hook the line with another lure, rod and reel, or other device. The use of braid or other line to attach one stinger hook (single or treble) is allowed but cannot be over two inches in length.

No competitor may intentionally snag or foul hook a

bass to be counted in their daily catch. Anyone guilty of snatching or snagging visible fish will have his or her catch disqualified. When visually fishing for bedding bass, to be counted as a legal fish, bass must be hooked inside the mouth and must be verified by your partner before being unhooked. With the mouth closed naturally, you must not be able to see where the hook point enters the fish to be considered hooked inside the mouth.

Competitors, including those who have been “cut” from

competition in an event, are allowed to share baits and tackle with one another at any time.

9. HORSEPOWER REGULATIONS: Maximum horsepower for all outboard motorboats

used in official tournament practice and in tournament competition will be 250 HP. Horsepower cannot exceed the limitations set by the U.S. Coast Guard. When required, each boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard horsepower-rating plate attached to the boat by the manufacturer. The horsepower of the outboard engine must NOT exceed the rating specified on this plate nor the horsepower maximum set by B.A.S.S. Each competitor agrees to submit, by their signature on the official entry form, the boat and outboard motor used in the tournament, to an inspection by factory-trained personnel, if there is reason to suspect the horsepower is in excess of the rating. Normal maintenance of engines is allowed. Changing or altering standard factory parts of a competitor’s engine to increase the horsepower over the factory horsepower rating, is forbidden and will result in disqualification. Falsifying information on entry forms, or altering the horsepower-rating numbers on the engine, is also cause for immediate disqualification

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from B.A.S.S. tournaments. Posted speed limits and those imposed by B.A.S.S. must be observed and all boats must be operated in a safe manner. Violations of speed limits shall result in loss of competition hours and not limited to disqualification.

10. BOAT AND MOTOR: These restrictions apply during official practice and

competition. For the safety of all competitors, all boats must be equipped with an approved type of operable ignition kill switch and lanyard. Only one manufactured lanyard may be used and it must be attached to the driver’s body any time the combustion engine is operating and in gear. Any time the combustion engine is operating and in gear, there must be a driver in the driver’s seat in full control of the boat. Fishing boats that are 16 feet or more in length may be used and must be equipped with wheel steering. No other steering device will be permitted. Any raised platforms or decks cannot be higher than the gunnels of the boat. Standing on the outboard or seats while fishing, is not allowed. An electric trolling motor may be used for slow maneuvering. However, trolling as a method of fishing is prohibited. The “LONG LINING” or “STROLLING” technique is NOT allowed in both official practice and competition and defined as intentionally using a trolling motor or outboard to mechanically extend a cast. No exceptions. Only gas tanks that are installed by the boat manufacturer are allowed. No portable gas tanks or containers capable of holding gasoline can be placed anywhere on the tournament waters or shoreline for use by any tournament competitor. No “barges” or similar craft will be permitted. Jet drive engines and tunnel hull boats are not allowed during both official practice and competition. Any boat/hull designs other than standard mass produced units are only allowed at the discretion of tournament officials.

11. BASIC BOAT EQUIPMENT: During official practice and competition, every boat

must have all required Coast Guard safety equipment and a functional bilge pump. During official competition, every boat must have live-well space, properly aerated, to adequately maintain alive, a limit catch of bass by both competitors using the boat. B.A.S.S. recommends live wells be maintained at full level and aerators/re-circulators on manual. Tournament officials shall have the sole responsibility for determining whether aeration and capacity is proper and adequate. Boater competitors must make a back seat available for Non-Boaters each competition day.

12. BOAT IDENTIFICATION: Prior to each day’s start, each boat must be given an

inspection check by a tournament official. Each day, each boat may be given a number, which must remain with the boat. This number must be displayed upon the request of tournament officials, and at each check-in.

13. BOAT OPERATION AND EXPENSE: During competition, in Boater-Non Boater type events,

Boaters will fish from the front deck, Non-Boaters from the rear deck, NO EXCEPTIONS. During both official practice and competition, Non-Boaters are only allowed to drive (outboard engine) the Boater’s boat in emergency situations with the exception of loading and unloading from trailers. During official practice, Non-Boaters not practicing with a Boater competitor, may practice, drive, and fish from the front deck of the boat. During official practice, non-boaters practicing with boaters are allowed to fish from the front deck and operate the trolling motor.

Any Boater that, in the judgment of the officials, operates the boat in such a manner as to unfairly handicap their Non-Boater partner shall be disqualified. At no time may a Boater competitor request that the Non-Boater competitor not fish. The cost of gas and oil for the competition days must be settled within your own state team. In B.A.S.S. events where observers replace anglers as the official rider, observers cannot assist the competing angler in any way. Observers are not required to help with gas and oil expenses.

14. PERMITTED FISHING LOCATIONS: Tournament waters shall be established by the

Tournament Director for each tournament. Each competitor must obtain this information from the B.A.S.S. Nation Department. Any water within these boundaries posted “Off-Limits” or “No Fishing” by state or federal agencies as well as the live-bass-release area established by the Tournament Director will be OFF-LIMITS and will be announced at the Tournament Briefing. Only that water open to ALL public fishing will be considered tournament waters. Waters deemed off limits by authorities or tournament officials should be treated like a wall. No boats or casting behind that boundary while fishing. All angling must be done from the boat. In states where landowners have the legal authority to claim private property, these areas must be posted or they will be considered tournament waters unless instructed otherwise by tournament officials at any time during the event. If

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forced to leave, a competitor must report the incident to tournament officials as soon as possible. Any water to which a competitor is barred access becomes off-limits to all competitors.

Prior to 8 am local time the day before the tournament is scheduled to begin, any questionable areas must be brought to the attention of tournament officials to be considered tournament waters. Questionable areas will be off limits until a determination can be made with authorities and may be announced in the briefing or via text for all to know unless determined otherwise by tournament officials.

Tournament officials reserve the right to restrict or enhance tournament waters based on conversations with local authorities. Competitors are not allowed to cut, remove, displace, or engage in any type structure removal from private property (dry land) during off limits, official practice or competition. Moving structure to include sawing of logs or other obstructions in the water is only allowed if laws permit. No competitor may place any object that may impede or cause danger to boaters.

15. COMPETITORS MUST REMAIN IN BOAT: During the competition days, competitors must not

depart the boat to land fish or to make the boat more accessible to fishing waters. Competitors may not shift a majority of their weight outside the boat and onto a dock or other object outside the boat for the purpose of landing a bass or accessing a fishing spot. A bass that cannot be landed without the angler leaving the boat or shifting his weight outside the boat must be released immediately. While keeping the majority of weight in the boat anglers are allowed for boat protection to push or shove off objects while landing a fish to be counted as legal. Competitors are allowed to leave the boat to retrieve a lure. All fishing by that competitor must cease until the competitor is back in the boat. Only then may another cast be made.

Boats must remain in tournament waters during

tournament days. Competitors must leave from and return to official checkpoints by boat. Both anglers must remain in the boat at all times, except in case of dire emergency, or with permission from the Tournament Director. Exceptions spelled out in rules 5, 15, and 18. In such an emergency, or with permission of the Tournament Director, competitors may be removed from their boat, either to a boat operated by other competitors, or a rescue boat designated by the Tournament Director. Partners

must remain together at all times, in sight of each other and each other’s catch, under the conditions cited above, in order for their catch of that day to be scored in the tournament, with the following exception. In breakdown situations and with a tournament official’s permission, Non-Boaters may transfer their boat ’s (Boater and Non-Boater’s) fish to another competitor’s boat and ride to check in, and they may leave their Boater with the disabled boat. In such cases, the Non-Boater must stay with their catches at all times and the assisting boat’s partners should verify the catch. Any angler whose boat is disabled and rides with another competitor or rescue boat to weigh in is not allowed to fish. In the event of a needed restroom break or refueling situation at a marina gas pump, contestants are allowed to leave the boat, at which time all fishing must cease until partners are back together in the boat. If a competitor violates any of the above conditions (to contact a tournament official by phone or other means, or to report an emergency or breakdown), both competitors must cease fishing at this point and their catch must be verified by a tournament official in order to be counted in the tournament. If, after the emergency situation is resolved by tournament officials, and enough time is left for the competitors to resume fishing, a restart will be allowed, the competitors will continue, and their catch will be counted. This applies only to dire emergency situations as determined by the Tournament Director or his/her designee. Towing boats on trailers during tournament hours is prohibited, except by the direction of tournament officials.

16. OFFICIAL CHECKPOINTS: There shall be only one official checkpoint for

checkout in the morning, and one official check-in point in the afternoon, which points shall be designated at the tournament briefing. Failure to go through boat check and checkout in the morning or failure to check-in at the check-in point in the afternoon may result in disqualification. At the time of checkout, all competitors and their boats shall be in full conformity with all rules set forth by the Tournament Director. At check-in, all boats shall identify themselves by means of the numbers described in Rule 12 and proceed immediately to the designated weigh-in area. Partners must stay together, through the weigh-in process if both are weighing bass. Once bass are bagged for weigh-in, anglers that are not weighing bass do not need to accompany their partner through the weigh-in process.

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17. SCORING: Tournament standings, contingency awards and final

winners shall be determined by the pound-and-ounce weight of each competitor’s catch during the competition days of the tournament. Only Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted, Redeye or Shoal bass will be weighed. The Boater limit shall be five (5), Non-Boater limit shall be three (3), of the above species and varieties per day, unless otherwise specified by tournament officials (example – hot weather/fish care concerns/championship events). At no time shall a competitor have in his or her possession more than the tournament limit. If a competitor determines they have over the limit they must immediately reduce his catch to the tournament limit with a live bass of their choice from their catch. Each returned bass will result in a 2-pound penalty to be deducted from their daily score. In this case, competitors must attempt to notify tournament officials and if unsuccessful must notify officials at check in. Once a competitor checks in they must present all legal bass to tournament officials at the verification table. If competitors at the verification table have more than the tournament limit, the competitor will reduce with live bass to the tournament limit and each returned bass will result in a 2-pound penalty to be deducted from their daily score. If a competitor has his fish verified, weighed and upon returning to the boat discovers additional fish over the tournament limit that were not presented to officials; he then must notify tournament officials within one hour of final flight check in to receive a 2 lb. penalty for each bass discovered will be imposed. Failure to notify officials after one hour of final flight check-in time will result in loss of day’s catch. Anglers who present fish at the verification table with fin clips attached will be assessed a 4-ounce penalty per clip. No manmade or foreign object connected to a bass will be weighed and shall be removed by tournament officials. The official length for bass shall be determined by the Tournament Director and announced at the Tournament Briefing. In most cases, it will be the longest state limit covering the tournament waters. Only bass as described above which measure the official length or more on the longest straight line, shall be weighed. Bass presented for weigh-in, which fail to measure the official length, shall result in a penalty of 1 pound for each such bass, which penalty shall be deducted from the total score of the competitor. Any bass that appears to have been mangled, mashed, mauled or otherwise altered will be weighed and credited only at the discretion of tournament officials. After competitors check in at the official checkpoint they MUST present all

LEGAL fish in their possession to a tournament official to be counted, measured and weighed. Once a competitor’s catch is measured, counted and verified by a tournament official, that competitor may not return to the boat until their catch has been weighed and recorded. Bass must not be stringered at any time during the tournament. Specially designed bags, which increase survival rate, will be furnished by the Tournament Director and must be used for the weigh-in.

18. CATCH AND RELEASE: CULLING OF DEAD BASS IS PROHIBITED. For

each legal dead bass presented to weigh-in officials, the competitor shall be penalized 4 oz. to be deducted from their daily score. Competitors are allowed to ice a dead fish that is part of their daily catch. The Tournament Director, or his/her designees, shall have sole authority for assessing penalty points. In addition, the Tournament Director, or his/her designees, may reduce tournament hours or tournament limits for fish care purposes. It is suggested in warm weather tournaments anglers keep extra ice for fish care. Contestants are allowed to purchase ice on the water; however, they are not allowed to receive ice from no contestants. Upon mutual consent of both Boater and Non-Boater paired together, for fish care concerns, the verification table will open one hour prior to check in time of the first flight. SMALL DIP NETS FOR CULLING PURPOSES ARE ENCOURAGED. It is recommended competitors keep all bass in live wells during the culling process. Placing bass on the boat carpet during culling is not advised. Only non-penetrating culling clips and culling beams are allowed for use. Any clip or device that penetrates or is designed to penetrate the skin or mouth of a fish is not allowed. Proper fizzing technique is suggested when needed. For instructions on acceptable fizzing practices, please contact tournament officials.

19. LATE PENALTY: Competitors who are not at the official check-in point,

as described in Rule 16, at the appointed time, shall be penalized at the rate of one pound per minute late; to be deducted from the total weight of his/her catch that day, including any weight to be counted toward a “big bass award”. Any competitor more than 15 minutes late shall lose all credit for that day’s catch. There shall be no excuse for tardiness, and in no case, shall a competitor be allowed to make up “lost time.” After proper recognition at the check-in point, competitors will be allowed ample time to proceed to the weigh-in site; however, all fishing

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must cease upon check-in. After the tournament begins, fishing the tournament waters is prohibited except during tournament hours. Exact starting and check-in times will be announced at the Tournament Briefing. It is each competitor’s responsibility to confirm check-in times each day on the daily pairings.

20. TIES: At any B.A.S.S. Nation Regional, in the Boater or Non-

Boater division, in case of a tie for the first place team or first place on a state team, or overall champion at the end of the tournament, that is not resolved by the four (4) tie breakers listed below, there will be a sudden-death fish-off between the tied competitors, under the direction and special rules established by tournament officials.

In case of a tie for first place weight at the end of the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, there will be a sudden-death fish-off between the tied competitors, under the direction and special rules established by tournament officials.

In case of a tie for first place weight in the Non-Boater division at the end of the Non- Boater portion of the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, that is not resolved by the four (4) tie breakers listed below, all tied Non-Boaters will advance to the final day of the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship.

All other ties will be resolved in the following order: (1) individual with heaviest single day catch during competition; (2) if the tie is not broken, the next tiebreaker will be the individual with the second heaviest single day catch during competition; (3) if the tie is not broken, the next tiebreaker will be the individual with the largest number of legal fish weighed during competition; (4) if the tie is not broken, the next tiebreaker will be the individual with the largest number of legal live fish weighed during competition. If the tie is not broken by applying the foregoing procedures, the tie will remain a tie, and monetary prizes for each competitor will be awarded in an equal amount between the tied competitors. In the instance where merchandise is involved, it will be awarded as determined by tournament officials. Ties for any cut in the Boater and Non-Boater division will be resolved in the same order explained above and when ties for cut positions are not broken by the foregoing procedures, competitors still tied will compete for the next cut.

21. PAIRING OF COMPETITORS: Two competitors will be assigned to each boat. Boaters

may be paired with Boaters, and share time. Boaters may not fish alone. Announcement of your first-day fishing partner will be made at the Tournament Briefing, which must be attended, except with permission from the Tournament Director, by each competitor. It will be the responsibility of each partner to appear at a mutually agreed upon location, with sufficient time remaining to check out at the official checkpoint and start on time.

Tournament officials shall have no responsibility for finding missing partners. The Tournament Director, at his/her sole discretion, may reassign partners prior to the morning take-off. It is suggested that a minimum of 30 minutes is required for preparation to depart to the checkout point. When two competitors check out at the beginning of the day, they must stay together and within sight of each other and each other’s catch, throughout the day, until the weigh-in is completed, except in case of dire emergency or exceptions (see Rule 15, 16 &18). A competitor must not allow any bass caught by them to be counted on the score of another competitor. In such a case, both competitors shall be disqualified from this tournament and from all future tournaments conducted by BASS.

22. RULES VIOLATIONS AND APPEALS COMMITTEE:

An appeals committee will be established by B.A.S.S., which shall be comprised of one B.A.S.S. employee not affiliated with the Tournament Department, and two anglers who are not competitors in the event in question. Appeals for penalties assessed under Rule 1 (b), (c), (d), (e) & (f ) must be presented in writing 48 hours from the time and date of ruling to the Tournament Director. Appeals hearings shall take place within seven (7) business days from the date of receipt of the written appeal and all parties must make themselves available at prescribed time of hearing. If competitors admit to a rules violation, they may not file an appeal of either the finding that they have violated the rules or the penalty imposed for the violation. Decisions of the appeals committee shall be final.

Competitors are allowed to compete under appeal. Field sizes after cuts would include any appealing angler making the cut for the next round of competition for that event.

Final standings will not be official until all appeals hearings are final and ruled upon. However, all standings above that of any appealing angler, as well as any adjusted final standings may be declared official. Standings, including points and monetary awards, may be adjusted

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after appeals final ruling and all affected anglers shall comply with all details of the final ruling.

The three-member ruling committee should remain confidential within the immediate appeals process.

23. PATCHES AND/OR SIGNAGE: Anglers are encouraged to wear their own clothing,

which may bear patches, logos and other signage promoting the angler’s sponsors. BASS may, however, restrict the use of patches, logos, signage, etc. that promote or advertise products which are, in B.A.S.S.’ sole judgment, in competition with the products or services of official BASS sponsors, or which are, in B.A.S.S.’ sole judgment, in poor taste. B.A.S.S. will provide as much advance notice as possible to the competitors in such instances. By signing this document, each Boater and Non-Boater agrees to wear an official B.A.S.S. shield (2 ¼” X 2 ¾”) on either left/right chest, with the top of the shield hitting the left/right collarbone or hat during competition, including the weigh-in. This B.A.S.S. shield must be printed or embroidered. In addition, if B.A.S.S. provides any ancillary clothing or products (such as life vests) bearing the logos of B.A.S.S. or the official sponsors of B.A.S.S., each competitor shall wear such clothing or utilize such products in a manner requested by B.A.S.S.

24. B.A.S.S. SPONSOR BOATS: When using B.A.S.S. sponsor boats, anglers are

responsible for the physical care of the boat. Damage incurred, determined to be excessive or wanton by the Tournament Director, shall result in the angler being responsible for all costs of repair.

25. TAXES: Where and when state laws require income taxes

be paid on cash awards to nonresidents, the taxes will be automatically deducted prior to the awards being presented to the winners. Competitors are responsible for all applicable taxes on both cash and merchandise awards. Various States require withholding tax on merchandise be paid upon the awarding of certificates and anglers awarded merchandise certificates in these States are responsible for remitting their tax to B.A.S.S. Failure to meet those obligations may result in reduction of Angler of Year Points, fines, and/or disqualification from all future BASS events.

26. WAIVER AND RELEASE: As a condition of participation in each tournament, each

competitor must execute a waiver and release of liability, and a name and likeness release.

27. STATE TEAM BOATS:

Each twenty-person state team will designate 10 Boaters and 10 Non Boaters during the official tournament competition days. B.A.S.S. recommends that each team bring at least one extra boat that meets B.A.S.S. regulations.

28. STATE TEAM ALTERNATES:

Each twenty-person state team will be allowed one alternate team member to replace an official team member if an official team member becomes ill or injured or has to leave the tournament due to personal business or tragedy. The alternates may be placed in the Boater or Non Boater division, if needed. In addition, the B.A.S.S. Nation state president or his/her designated representative will be considered a second alternate. B.A.S.S. headquarters must receive a completed entry form from the alternate team member and the B.A.S.S. Nation state president or his/her designated representative, on or before the tournament entry deadline date or the state will not be allowed an alternate team member(s). The Tournament Director must approve the reason for the leaving of the official team member before a replacement of the official team member with the alternate will be allowed. If the official tournament competition has begun, the team score will be determined by using the score of the official team member on the competition days in which he participated and the score of the alternate on the competition days in which he participated as a team member. The scores for the individual competition will be taken from each competitor’s own scores.

©2021 B.A.S.S., LLCAll rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any material in these rules prohibited except by written permission of B.A.S.S.

B.A.S.S.®B.A.S.S. Tournament Department3500 Blue Lake Drive, Suite 330Birmingham, AL 35243 877-BASS USA (227-7872)

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Suggested Bylaws for a B.A.S.S. Nation® Club

___________________________________________CLUB NAME

___________________________________________CITY

___________________________________________STATE, ZIP

These bylaws are offered as a basis for your new club. They are, of course, not ironclad and can be modified, if necessary, for your particular group before submitting them to the national organization for certification. If your group is one that is already formed and operating under established bylaws, please add all of Article II Membership, Article III – Section 1, Officers, Elections, Vacancies, and Eligibility and all of Article VI Affiliation and submit two copies to B.A.S.S. for approval. When your bylaws have been approved, the certified copy will be returned to your club secretary.

ARTICLE I – Name and PurposeSection 1: NameThis club shall be called the:____________________________________________

Name Of Club____________________________________________

City, State

Section 2: PurposeTo stimulate public awareness of bass fishing

as a major sport. To offer our state conservation department our organized moral and political support and encouragement. To promote full adherence to all conservation codes and to demand adequate water standards. To detect and report any polluter and call public and political attention to his/her crime. To improve our skill as bass anglers through a fellowship of friendly exchange of expert bass-catching techniques and ideas, and to promote and encourage youth fishing and a love for this great recreation. To function as a dynamic and effective link with other clubs of the state B.A.S.S. Nation, embracing the principles and purposes of B.A.S.S.®.

ARTICLE II – MembershipSection 1: Number of MembersThe club shall begin with and maintain at least six

members.

Section 2: Requirement for Regular MembershipTo become a club member, a person shall:

(a) Voluntarily express a genuine interest in membership.(b) Be a member of B.A.S.S. (See ARTICLE VI for

affiliation requirements.)(c) Be a member of the state B.A.S.S. Nation.(d) Be recommended by two members at a regular

monthly meeting.(e) Be voted on by membership. Vote shall be by secret

ballot and affirmation shall be unanimous.(f ) Be 16 years of age.

Section 3: Requirements for Junior Membership*To become a junior member of an adult club, a

person shall:(a) Voluntarily express a genuine interest in membership.(b) Be under 16 years of age.

*Junior members are not required to pay national membership dues and are not entitled to the benefits of a regular member. The acceptance of junior members will not affect a club’s liability insurance policy. Junior members may not hold office in an adult club nor may they be voting members. At age 16, junior members may continue membership by joining the club as a regular member. Junior membership ceases on a person’s 16th birthday.

Section 4: Membership DuesThe membership dues shall be $ annually,

initially payable upon being voted into the club, $30 of which shall be for B.A.S.S. Nation dues, $ of which shall be for club dues and $ of which shall be state dues. B.A.S.S. membership dues are also required at the current rate. (See ARTICLE VI, Section 1 for state affiliation requirements.)

Section 5: Meetings of MembersThe membership shall hold regular meetings at

pre-established times.

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ARTICLE III – Officers, Elections, Vacancies, and Eligibility

Section 1:Officers shall conduct the affairs of the club in a

manner consistent with these Bylaws. In addition, the State B.A.S.S. Nation Board of Directors is required to be comprised of members who are free to serve the State and its members without a conflict of interest. B.A.S.S. Nation State Board Members and Officers are not permitted to hold positions within any other B.A.S.S. Nation-type organization, that is not affiliated with B.A.S.S.

Section 2: Officers and their DutiesThe officers of the club shall consist of:

(a) President: Preside over all meetings and direct all official business. Appoint and be an ex-officio member of all committees. Supervise all club functions.

(b) Vice President: Act as program chairman, assist the president in his/her duties and preside in the absence of the president.

(c) Secretary: Maintain accurate minutes of all regular and special meetings as called for by the club president. Maintain regular liaison between your club and the B.A.S.S. and the state B.A.S.S. club.

(d) Treasurer: Collect and disburse all monies. Maintain accurate financial records and present a current balance report at each regular meeting. Prepare an annual audit for review by the club board of directors. The club may vote that the treasurer and any other officer handling club funds must be bonded.

(e) Conservation Chairman: Serve as liaison between the club and state and national conservation/environmental agencies. Plan club conservation projects and attend all local and state conservation meetings/hearings.

(f ) Youth Chairman: Organize all youth activities and programs. Coordinate youth events and start a Junior Bassmaster Club when the club is ready for this sponsorship.

Section 3: ElectionsThe election of officers shall be held annually at a

regular meeting during the month of _____. Election shall be by simple majority of members present. Election

for each officer shall be held separately in the order listed in ARTICLE III, Section 2.

Section 4: Eligibility of VoteEach member is entitled to one vote. Proxy votes are

not permitted.

Section 5: Term of OfficeThe term of office is for one year, which shall begin

on and end on the last meeting day of or until the successor assumes office.

Section 6: VacanciesIn the event of an office becoming vacant,

nominations shall be asked for and an election held to fill the unexpired term of the individual vacating the office. National B.A.S.S. headquarters shall be notified immediately of the change of any officers.

Section 7: Eligibility for Holding OfficeTo be eligible for an office a member must:

(a) Have been a member for six months. (Six months’ requirement waived during first 12 months of club existence.)

(b) Have attended at least 75% of the club meetings and 75% of club functions during a 12-month period.

(c) Have shown an active interest in all club functions.(d) Maintain current B.A.S.S. membership.

ARTICLE IV – Standing CommitteesAll standing committees will serve for one year or

until a new committee is appointed. The terms of the committee members will coincide with that of the president. Each committee shall elect a chairman.(a) Board of Directors: The board of directors

will consist of seven members: president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, immediate past president and two members elected at large by majority vote of the members present at the December regular meetings.(1) The president will call all meetings of the board

of directors and preside at such meetings.(2) The secretary will record the minutes of these

meetings.(3) The board will rule on all tournament rules

infractions, club bylaws violations and all

protests when appropriately received.(4) The board will develop agendas for the

monthly meetings.(b) Youth Committee: The purpose of this committee

shall be to plan, organize and implement a club youth project; to introduce young people to the goals of B.A.S.S.; to give them a basis of respect for our national heritage and an appreciation of the basic rules for honesty, integrity, fair play and good sportsmanship; and to give them an introduction to the sheer joy of fishing.

(c) Conservation Committee: The purpose of this committee shall be to protect our natural environment from harmful change; to document and report to the proper authorities violations of local, state and federal antipollution laws, statutes, regulations, ordinances and other regulatory devices; to take legal action where appropriate; to undertake informational and educational programs to bring public awareness of threats to our environment; and to take a leadership role in repairing the harm that has already been done to the life-giving waters of America.

(d) Tournament Committee: The purpose of the tournament committee shall be to plan, organize and operate all club tournaments. The tournament committee will draft tournament rules, which must then be approved by the general membership. The committee will keep tournament records, enforce all tournament rules, investigate all protests concerning tournaments and make recommendations to the board of directors.

ARTICLE V – Removal of MembershipSection 1: Removal of MembershipMembers may be dropped from the membership roll

for the following reasons:(a) Failure to pay dues.(b) Any action that would reflect dishonor and disgrace

on the club and/or B.A.S.S.(c) Failure to attend 50% of the club meetings and 50%

of club functions during a 12-month period.(d) Disqualification for any reason from participating

in B.A.S.S.-sponsored events , inc luding disqualification for use of drugs or alcohol.

Note: Military deployment exempt.

ARTICLE VI – AffiliationSection 1: Requirements for Affiliation

(a) Approval of club charter by B.A.S.S..(b) Update B.A.S.S. with club membership roster

once each year. Annual update cycle begins each year on Nov. 1.

(c) Names and addresses of new members joining the club during the year must be submitted online to B.A.S.S. as they occur. (See ARTICLE II, Section 3 for dues requirements.)

(d) Maintain 100% B.A.S.S. membership.(e) Must affiliate with the state Nation and support its

conservation and youth programs. Any additional requirements that the state establishes for clubs, such as membership, dues, attendance at meetings, etc., would be necessary for the club to participate in the state qualifying tournament(s) and any other Nation-sponsored tournaments or events.

ARTICLE VII – Method of Amending the Bylaws

Section 1: Amending the BylawsThe bylaws may be amended at any regular meeting

by a two-thirds vote of the members present, provided written notice of the proposed amendment has been presented to the membership at least one regular meeting prior to the vote. We, the undersigned charter members, do hereby agree to the above bylaws and the commencement of the club on this the __________ day of ___________________, 20_______.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Complete two copies and forward both to B.A.S.S. for

endorsement.One copy will be returned to the club secretary.

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Press Release for ClubsSample

For Immediate Release:

Date _____________________ Contact ____________________________________________________________

The recently organized ___________________ Bassmasters, an affiliated club of the _______________________ B.A.S.S. Nation, will hold its next regular meeting at ______________________________________________ p.m. on _______________________________ at the ______________________.

The meeting is open to any interested bass fishermen, according to ____________________, president of this local bass fishing/conservation group.

The ______________________________ Bassmasters is one of more than 2,000 affiliated clubs of the more than 500,000 member national bass fishing organization’s headquartered in Birmingham, Ala. Besides an interest in improving anglers’ bass fishing skills, the organization has acted to improve fishing waters and protect the sport of fishing.

Since its founding in early 1968, B.A.S.S. has become the watchdog of the waterways for sport fishermen. B.A.S.S. worked to help with the passage of the Clean Water Act that has protected our Nation’s water for 40 years, and also with the passage of the National Boating and Fishing Enhancement Act, which provides over $365 million annually for boating and fishing programs in the 50 states.

The organization of B.A.S.S. clubs into 47 State Nations and 10 International Nations has strengthened the organization’s ability to respond to threats to our aquatic resources at the state and local level. “These organizations are the first line of defense for clean water and healthy habitats,” said the president.

The Nation works closely with state game and fish personnel and elected legislative officials to protect our natural resources, for the improvement of the sport of bass fishing. Other projects include the organization of youth fishing programs and statewide tournaments. Other officers in the local club are: __________________________________

For additional information on how you can become a part of the B.A.S.S. Nation club Program, go to Bassmaster.com/nation

As a B.A.S.S. Nation-affiliated club in good standing, your club is covered under the B.A.S.S. Nation third party liability insurance. You will find the answer to most of your insurance questions about the B.A.S.S. Nation policy and what is covered in this Insurance FAQ. Click here for FAQ

If the location of your club function is requesting a COI (certificate of insurance) print out the request form at the following link and follow the instructions for submission. The insurance company will provide you with a COI, if your club is in good standing. B.A.S.S. Nation insurance request form

Insurance

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B.A.S.S. Nation® Staff

Jon StewartB.A.S.S. Nation Director Office: 205-313-0940 Cell: 407-557-0126 jstewart@bassmaster.com

Hank WeldonManager, College Series, B.A.S.S. High School and Youth Office: 205-313-0957 Cell: 678-296-5826 hweldon@bassmaster.com

B.A.S.S. Nation Questions BN@bassmaster.com

Gene GillilandB.A.S.S. Conservation Director Phone: 405-317-9488 ggilliland@bassmaster.com

State Presidentswww.bassmaster.com/bass-nation-presidents

Youth Directorswww.bassmaster.com/high-school-youth-directors

Conservation Directorshttps://www.bassmaster.com/conservation-news/state-conservation-director-list

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B.A.S.S. Nation®

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(205) 313-0900FAX (205) 313-0953

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2021 Edition